Annual Day: Our Collaborative Journey — Through the Story of Abhimanyu
This Annual Day will stay with me for a long time—not just because of the applause or the lights, but because of the journey I lived through as a performer. I was part of the dance choreography based on Abhimanyu—the warrior prince who enters the Chakravyuham knowing he may never return. It was a story of courage, sacrifice, and resilience, brought alive on stage through movement and expression.
What made this experience truly special was that I had never danced before. Stepping into choreography was unfamiliar and intimidating. Yet, at Manchester International School, learning is never limited to labels or comfort zones. Here, we are encouraged to explore beyond what we already know—to be curious, to take risks, and to discover new sides of ourselves. I learned that you don’t have to be “just one thing.” At Manchester, you can be both a jack and a master of many, constantly evolving as a learner.
Our coach, Mr. Kulanthaivel, played the role of Abhimanyu himself, bringing immense depth and intensity to the performance. Learning from him was inspiring—not just as a performer, but as a mentor. He guided us patiently, helping us understand not only the choreography but also the emotion and meaning behind the mythological narrative. For many of us, including me, this was our first deep engagement with Indian mythology, and it became a powerful learning experience beyond textbooks.
Understanding Abhimanyu’s story helped me see mythology not as distant history, but as living lessons in bravery, strategy, and sacrifice. Translating these emotions into movement was challenging, but incredibly rewarding. Each rehearsal pushed me to grow—physically, emotionally, and mentally.
The moment we stepped on stage, everything came together. The loud cheers, the standing ovation, and the goosebump moments made every effort worthwhile. It wasn’t just appreciation for a performance—it was recognition of teamwork, courage, and collective effort. Standing there, I realised how meaningful success feels when it is shared.
This experience reflected the true spirit of IB education at Manchester International School—learning through experience, collaboration, and reflection. Annual Day was not just a celebration; it was a reminder that learning happens everywhere: on stage, through stories, through courage, and through stepping into the unknown.
As I look back, I don’t just remember a performance. I remember discovering a new part of myself—and that, perhaps, was the most powerful learning of all.
